Uncle Thanksgiving Dressing
A flavorful Thanksgiving dressing with seasoned bread, sautéed vegetables, olives, and savory drippings, perfect for holiday gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry diced onions, celery, green peppers, and stuffed olives in butter until the celery is soft.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
- Crumble the bread and pour the drippings from the cooked bird over the bread.
- Add chicken bouillon cubes to the mixture for added flavor.
- Combine the sautéed vegetables and drippings with the crumbled bread and mix well.
- Moisten the mixture as needed and season to taste.
- Place the mixture in a greased baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken stock instead of drippings. If you don't have seasoned bread crumbs, you can mix plain breadcrumbs with dried herbs like thyme and sage. Adding a splash of white wine to the sautéed vegetables can also enhance the taste. If you're looking to make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon.
Serving Suggestions
This dressing pairs beautifully with a rich roasted turkey or chicken. Serve alongside classic sides like Mashed Potatoes(Kid'S Stuff) and green bean casserole for a complete holiday meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or sage for added color and flavor. For a twist, serve it with a cranberry sauce on the side to balance the savory notes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also add a little broth or water to moisten it if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Uncle Thanksgiving Dressing contains roughly 79 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. On the day of serving, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What type of bread works best for this dressing?
While seasoned bread crumbs are great, you can also use stale bread, sourdough, or cornbread for a different texture and flavor. If using regular bread, toast it lightly before crumbling to help absorb the moisture better.
Can I add other ingredients to this dressing?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate ingredients like cooked sausage, mushrooms, or nuts for added depth. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can also bring a sweet contrast to the savory flavors in the dressing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).